PUNE: City-based activist Vidyanand Bapat, who has been opposing the use of high-decibel DJ systems and loudspeakers during festivals, was allegedly assaulted by a man on Thursday morning.Bapat was attacked while speaking to media persons in the Tilak Road area, news agency PTI reported.A video of the incident shows a man slapping Bapat as he was giving a sound bite to reporters on the road.Police reached the spot following the incident and escorted Bapat away in a police van.“We are trying to identify the attacker. For his safety, Bapat was escorted in a van,” a police officer said.Further details, including the identity and motive of the attacker, are awaited, PTI reported.Bapat’s opposition to loudspeakers and high-volume DJ systems has emerged as a statewide talking point, with growing public support developing into an organised civic movement.He has been campaigning against loud music and DJs during festivals, arguing that excessive noise inconveniences residents and affects their health and well-being.Bapat came into the spotlight after attending a recent preparatory meeting of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for the upcoming Ganesh festival.During the meeting, he sought a complete ban on amplified DJ music and high-volume speakers.His demand led to a heated confrontation with representatives of various local Ganesh mandals.Police personnel eventually escorted him out of the building amid protests and heckling.Videos of the confrontation soon went viral, bringing Bapat into the spotlight.(With agency inputs)
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